Chelsea 1-0 Pafos: Report, result and goals as Caicedo grabs late winner

Chelsea edged past Pafos with a 1-0 win at Stamford Bridge, strengthening their bid for a place in the Champions League knockout stages.

The Blues dominated possession from the opening minutes and spent most of the first half camped inside the Pafos half, yet clear chances were hard to come by against a compact and disciplined visiting side.

Neto was Chelsea’s most consistent outlet early on, repeatedly driving at Ken Sema and delivering crosses into the box, while Enzo Fernandez made several late runs that caused problems.

Chelsea thought they had taken the lead midway through the first half when Fernandez headed home from Neto’s cross, but the goal was ruled out for a push in the build-up.

Pafos were rarely seen in attack, but they nearly stunned Stamford Bridge on the half-hour mark. Jaja cut inside and fired a shot that struck the post after deflecting off Reece James, prompting loud appeals for handball. The referee waved them away, with James’ arm tucked into his body.

Despite Chelsea’s control, goalkeeper Ivan Gorter was the standout performer before the break. He produced strong saves from Moises Caicedo and Jorrel Hato, keeping the score level at half-time and growing in confidence as the game went on.

Rosenior responded with changes at the interval, introducing Estevao. The 18-year-old tested Gorter with a sharp volley early in the second half, while Chelsea continued to pile on pressure.

The breakthrough finally arrived in the 78th minute. Neto’s corner caused confusion at the near post, where Dimata flicked the ball on unintentionally.

Caicedo reacted quickest, timing his run well and nodding the ball into the bottom corner from close range. The reaction inside the stadium made clear how much the goal mattered.

Pafos pushed forward late on, making several attacking substitutions and delivering crosses into the Chelsea box.

Sanchez was required to punch clear under pressure and later gathered Dimata’s low effort comfortably as the visitors searched for an equaliser.

Chelsea saw out four minutes of added time without further drama, securing a narrow but valuable victory.

It was far from comfortable, but it kept their Champions League campaign on track.